A controversy has erupted in Kerala following an incident at the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, where the national anthem was sung incorrectly during the party's 141st foundation day celebrations on Sunday. The event, which included a flag hoisting ceremony, was attended by prominent Congress leaders, including former Defence Minister AK Antony, VM Sudheeran, PC Vishnunadh MLA, AICC General Secretary Deepa Dasmunsi, and Palode Ravi.

During the rendition of the national anthem, the lead singer began with the incorrect line "Jana-gana-mangala-dayaka jaya he" instead of the correct opening, "Jana-gana-mana-adhinayaka jaya he". Despite the error, those present, including senior Congress leaders, did not intervene or correct the mistake, and the anthem was completed with the incorrect lyrics.

The incident was captured on video and quickly spread on social media, triggering widespread criticism and embarrassment for the Congress party. Opposition parties and the public have reacted sharply, questioning the party's respect for the national anthem. As of yet, there has been no official statement from the Congress leadership regarding the incident.

This is not the first time the Congress party in Kerala has faced such a situation. Earlier in February 2024, a similar incident occurred during the concluding meeting of the Samaragni Yatra in Thiruvananthapuram, where Congress leader Palode Ravi also sang the national anthem incorrectly. That incident led to widespread criticism and internal complaints within the party. Notably, Palode Ravi was present during this most recent incident as well.

The repeated nature of these errors has amplified the criticism, with many questioning the Congress leadership's attentiveness and ability to ensure the correct rendition of the national anthem during public events. The incident has sparked a broader debate about the importance of upholding national symbols and protocols, particularly in public functions.

The BJP in Kerala has previously filed a police complaint against Congress leader Palode Ravi for incorrectly singing the national anthem at a party event. In the earlier incident, a Congress MLA, T Siddique, intervened to correct the rendition. Siddique then stated that the incorrect singing was unintentional and urged people not to exaggerate the issue. He also pointed out a similar incident involving BJP members in Bengal in 2021.

The current incident occurs amidst other controversies in Kerala, including political disputes over office space in Thiruvananthapuram and allegations regarding ideological content in public schooling. The state government is also investigating a controversy involving the singing of an alleged RSS anthem at a Vande Bharat Express flag-off ceremony, further highlighting the sensitivity surrounding national and political symbols in the state.